"James has worked tremendously hard and earned himself a key role on our team last season," said Wilson. "His perseverance and dedication make him a valuable asset to our organization going forward."

In 2013-14, Sheppard posted 20 points (four goals, 16 assists), a plus-three rating, and 35 penalty minutes in 67 games. In seven postseason games with San Jose, Sheppard registered six points (two goals, four assists) and a plus-three rating, finishing tied for second on the team in points (six), goals (two), and assists (four).

The 26-year-old Sheppard has appeared in 323 career regular season NHL games, registering 73 points (16 goals, 57 assists) and 155 penalty minutes. He was nominated for the 2013 Masterton Trophy after returning from a career-threatening leg injury that forced him to miss two full NHL seasons from 2010-2012.

The six-foot-one, 215-pound native of Halifax, Nova Scotia, was acquired from Minnesota via trade on Aug. 7, 2011. He was originally selected by Minnesota in the 2006 NHL Draft (1st round, 9th overall).